In Her Defense

This book! Unputdownable. It’s my first A+ read of 2026. It was Reese’s Book Club’s February pick (that’s how I found it), and I can see why, as it’s just incredibly written with amazing storytelling. Anna Finbow is a national treasure and beloved TV celebrity. But now she’s in court, battling her daughter Mary’s therapist Jean Guest. Guest has, in Anna’s words, brainwashed her daughter, causing Mary to become estranged from her family. Jean insists that she’s been there to help Mary through the significant trauma that came from her upbringing. Anna maintains that Jean has planted fake memories in Mary’s head. No one can really say who is telling the truth. We meet Augusta “Gus” Bird, Anna’s former employee. Gus may hold the key to the truth, if only she can be brave enough to stand up. The book is set across the English countryside, Rome, and in the courtroom as we get to know a rather tangled cast of characters, lies, and deceit. I loved how transportive it was; I felt like I was visiting Rome. And qualities of the writing (and the scenery, and the suspense) gave it a bit of a Talented Mr. Ripley vibe. Truly such a fantastic read.